Children and Youth Feel Valued, Heard, and Included

It is important to note that there exists a power difference between young people and adults, and missed opportunities for young people to be heard and involved in meaningful ways. The CYPT seeks to ensure that Children and Youth feel valued, heard, and included in traditionally adult spaces.

Key Actions the CYPT is Taking

  • CYPT hired three Youth Connector positions in partnership with Camino Well-being and Mental Health. These young people work on the CYPT Backbone Team
  • Conducting the 2020, 2021, and 2023 Waterloo Region Youth Impact Survey and sharing the data back with the community
  • Youth Sense Making Sessions: where we speak with youth in the community about the Youth Impact Survey data – led by the Youth Connectors
  • Youth Connector-led Impact & Action Summit annually
  • Working on the Child Voice Project, our method to hear from children under nine about their life and well-being
Three young people standing in downtown kitchener smiling for the camera.
The 2023-2024 Youth Connectors: Julnar, Haniya, and Kian.
Group of young people wearing Smart Waterloo Region t-shirts standing behind a table. On top of the table, there are various colourful drawstring bags
Youth who planned and led the 2024 Youth Impact & Action Summit

Key Data from the CYPT

Key Training & Resources

More About Belonging

Equity is one out of three key areas of belonging. Learn more about attachment/relationships and equity.